Donna M. Christensen
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has affected millions of people across the country, and New Jersey has not been spared. The state has had the highest infection rates in the country throughout the pandemic and has severe racial disparities. According to a recent Gothamist article, he accounts for 43% of confirmed coronavirus deaths among adults under the age of 50 in New Jersey, even though he makes up only 12% of the state’s total population. No, he was a Latino man.
Even before the pandemic, research found that more than half of Americans with employer-sponsored health insurance will delay or postpone recommended treatment for themselves or a family member in 2020 due to cost. I was doing Now, as insurance companies continue to make billions of dollars while curtailing services like his COVID-19 coverage, a New Jersey resident has taken the time to figure out what various health plans cover and what they don’t. Considering things is more important than ever. Health insurance practices are changing and New Jersey residents should be prepared.
As open registration begins for many New Jersey residents on November 1, consumers will be exposed to changes in COVID-19 coverage, unexpected medical bills, junk health plans that can’t cover pre-existing conditions, and more. It is important to be aware of potential pitfalls. October is Health Literacy Month, and Consumer for Quality Care is helping Americans understand their options for choosing health insurance coverage and making sure they know the details of the health plan they choose. I’m here.
Insurance companies have already changed their policies when it comes to COVID-19. Nearly three-quarters of the nation’s largest medical plans have ended their COVID-19 cost waivers, which is only hurting patients. Healthcare costs continue to rise for New Jersey residents, with predatory charges for something as simple as a COVID-19 test. Despite due diligence, consumers are still plagued by large and unexpected medical bills.
While the recently passed COVID-19 Aid Act protects most patients from expensive test bills, New Jersey patients are plagued with significantly higher than usual prices, with some tests costing It costs as much as $990. Consumers don’t have to crush medical debt, especially during a pandemic that has caused unprecedented job losses and income declines. It’s more important than ever to weigh your options and exercise due diligence when choosing health insurance.
Telemedicine has become a lifeline for many Americans during COVID-19, including people in New Jersey. The expansion of telemedicine services during the pandemic will help people in rural areas with limited access to health care providers, or those who struggle to find time to visit clinics to juggle work and childcare. Saved lives. Nearly 70% of Americans will continue to use telemedicine services after the pandemic, according to a CQC survey. Unfortunately, some insurers have already reduced coverage for this essential tool. This has proven to be of great benefit even beyond the pandemic, especially in underserved communities where access to medical services is often difficult. Consumers need to understand how services such as telemedicine are covered and whether they are covered when choosing health insurance.
With an estimated one-third of COVID-19 survivors identified as having sustained effects from the virus, New Jersey consumers often exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions for short periods of time. You should watch out for junk health plans like limited insurance plans. New Jersey residents who want to save on medical costs should avoid STLDI. STLDI attracts consumers with lower premiums, but often lacks sufficient coverage when they need it most.
The looming threat of racial disparities in care, predatory billing, and reduced access to telemedicine services will force legislators, state insurance commissions, insurers, and hospitals more than ever to deal with rising healthcare costs. and ensure that all Americans have access to quality, affordable services. The care they need and deserve. In the meantime, CQC encourages New Jersey residents to carefully consider their health insurance options during open enrollment in 2021 so they can make the best possible decisions for themselves and their families. I urge you to do so.
Donna M. Christensen served nine terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and was the first female physician elected to the House of Representatives. She currently serves on the Board of Consumers for Quality Care. She was born in Teaneck, New Jersey.